West Virginia University undergraduate Corinne Hazel has achieved a landmark discovery in the world of mycology and pharmacology by identifying a rare fungus, Periglandula clandestina, that naturally produces LSD-related compounds in morning glory plants—a mystery dating back to the 1930s.
Key Takeaways
- A college student discovered Periglandula clandestina, the LSD-producing fungus that scientists had searched for since Albert Hofmann first theorized its existence in the 1930s.
- The fungus lives symbiotically within morning glory plant tissues, producing lysergic acid derivatives that act as natural pesticides and protective agents.
- DNA sequencing and genome analysis confirmed this as a completely new species, and its genetic data has been archived in public gene banks with Hazel credited as the official discoverer.
- The breakthrough has major pharmaceutical implications, offering potential alternative sources for ergot-derived medications used in treating migraines, psychiatric disorders, and other medical conditions.
- The discovery validates traditional indigenous knowledge surrounding the psychoactive nature of morning glory seeds, and it paves the way for new research on plant-fungal symbiosis and natural psychoactive compound synthesis.
Historical and Scientific Significance
Corinne Hazel’s work has solved an enduring puzzle first posed by Albert Hofmann, the Swiss chemist best known for synthesizing LSD. Hofmann theorized that a fungus resembling ergot might be responsible for the psychoactive effects of morning glory seeds, but no one had successfully identified it until now.
Future Implications
This discovery doesn’t only deepen our understanding of plant biology and symbiotic relationships but also holds promise in the future of medicine. The lysergic acid derivatives produced by Periglandula clandestina could provide new ways of sourcing compounds traditionally derived from ergot, an expensive and difficult-to-cultivate fungus.
With greater public interest in psychedelic research and plant-based medicine, Hazel’s discovery is a timely contribution that bridges the gap between traditional knowledge and modern scientific inquiry.
College Student’s Discovery Ends 80-Year Scientific Mystery
West Virginia University undergraduate Corinne Hazel stumbled upon what scientists had been searching for since the 1930s – a fungus that produces LSD-related compounds naturally. Her discovery of Periglandula clandestina in morning glory plants finally solved an eight-decade mystery that had puzzled researchers including Albert Hofmann, the chemist who first synthesized LSD.
The Elusive Fungus Hidden in Plain Sight
Hazel spotted the organism as nothing more than a tiny bit of fuzz clinging to the seed coat of Ipomoea tricolor morning glory seeds. This seemingly insignificant detail represented a breakthrough that had eluded generations of scientists. The fungus produces lysergic acid derivatives, compounds closely related to LSD, which help protect the morning glory plants from predators and environmental threats.
Scientists had theorized about this fungus’s existence since Hofmann first began investigating ergot alkaloids in the 1930s. They suspected that morning glories didn’t produce these psychoactive compounds entirely on their own but relied on a symbiotic relationship with an unidentified fungal partner. Decades of searching yielded no concrete evidence until Hazel’s careful observation during her laboratory work.
From Student Project to Scientific Breakthrough
Hazel’s discovery emerged from a routine lab project examining how morning glories produce and distribute ergot alkaloids as protective chemicals. Her attention to detail revealed what experienced researchers had missed for generations. The fungus lives symbiotically within the plant tissue, creating LSD-related compounds that serve as natural pesticides.
This finding connects to broader scientific mysteries that continue to fascinate researchers. Just as scientists think they’ve discovered explanations for other perplexing phenomena, Hazel’s work demonstrates how fresh perspectives can crack long-standing puzzles.
The identification of Periglandula clandestina changes our understanding of how psychoactive compounds develop in nature. Rather than being solely plant products, these substances result from complex partnerships between organisms. The fungus essentially acts as a biochemical factory, producing protective chemicals that benefit both itself and its host plant.
Hazel’s success highlights the value of undergraduate research participation. Her willingness to examine minute details that others might overlook led to a discovery that had frustrated professional mycologists and biochemists for decades. The West Virginia University student’s find proves that scientific breakthroughs can come from unexpected sources.
Morning glory seeds have long been known to contain psychoactive properties, but understanding their biological origin remained elusive. Indigenous cultures have used these seeds for centuries in spiritual practices, unaware that a microscopic fungus was responsible for their effects. Hazel’s identification of Periglandula clandestina finally explains the biological mechanism behind these traditional uses.
The discovery also opens new research directions for understanding plant-fungal relationships. Scientists can now investigate whether similar partnerships exist in other psychoactive plants. This knowledge could lead to insights about natural drug production and potentially inform pharmaceutical development.
Hazel’s work exemplifies how systematic observation combined with modern analytical techniques can solve historical mysteries. Her discovery required both careful visual examination and sophisticated molecular analysis to confirm the fungus’s identity and function. The combination of traditional field observation skills with cutting-edge laboratory methods proved essential for this breakthrough.
The 80-year search for this organism demonstrates how some scientific questions require patience, persistence, and sometimes a fresh set of eyes. Hazel’s undergraduate status didn’t hinder her ability to make this significant contribution to mycology and biochemistry. Her discovery of Periglandula clandestina ensures that future research into ergot alkaloids and plant-fungal symbiosis will build upon a more complete understanding of these fascinating biological relationships.
Albert Hofmann’s Century-Old Hypothesis Finally Proven
Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann made history in 1938 when he first synthesized LSD from the ergot fungus Claviceps purpurea. This breakthrough opened a new chapter in psychedelic research, but Hofmann’s curiosity didn’t stop there. His subsequent hypothesis about similar fungi existing in morning glory plants would captivate scientists for nearly a century.
Hofmann’s interest in morning glories stemmed from their documented use in traditional Mexican rituals. Indigenous communities had long recognized the hallucinogenic properties of morning glory seeds, particularly in ceremonial contexts. This historical usage pattern struck Hofmann as remarkably similar to ergot’s effects, leading him to theorize that a related fungal organism might be responsible for producing these psychoactive compounds.
The Elusive Fungal Connection
The search for this mysterious organism proved challenging despite decades of investigation. Scientists successfully identified ergot alkaloids in morning glory plants—chemical compounds that share structural similarities with LSD. However, pinpointing the exact organism responsible for producing these alkaloids remained frustratingly out of reach. Researchers examined plant tissues, analyzed seed compositions, and explored various fungal candidates, yet the producing organism continued to evade detection.
Multiple research teams attempted to isolate and identify the source throughout the latter half of the 20th century. Advanced microscopy techniques, chemical analysis methods, and molecular biology tools all contributed to the search. Each study added pieces to the puzzle, but none delivered the definitive answer Hofmann had first proposed.
The recent discovery by a college student validates what Hofmann suspected all along — that fungi play a crucial role in producing the psychoactive compounds found in morning glory plants. This breakthrough connects traditional knowledge with modern scientific understanding, bridging ancient ceremonial practices with contemporary pharmacological research.
Hofmann’s original work with Claviceps purpurea established the foundation for understanding how fungi can produce powerful psychoactive substances. His discoveries about LSD synthesis revolutionized both medical research and cultural perspectives on consciousness-altering substances.
The cultural impact of LSD extends far beyond Hofmann’s laboratory discoveries. During the mid-20th century, LSD became central to controversial medical experiments and psychotherapy treatments. Researchers explored its potential for treating various mental health conditions, while simultaneously, the compound gained notoriety in counterculture movements of the 1960s.
This historical context makes the recent fungal discovery particularly significant. Understanding the natural production mechanisms of these compounds provides insights into their evolutionary purpose and potential therapeutic applications. The identification process reveals how nature has developed sophisticated biochemical pathways to create these complex molecules.
Hofmann’s hypothesis demonstrated remarkable foresight in connecting disparate pieces of ethnobotanical and chemical evidence. His understanding of fungal alkaloid production allowed him to predict relationships that wouldn’t be confirmed until decades later. The morning glory fungus discovery represents more than just academic validation — it opens new avenues for research into natural psychoactive compound production.
Pharmaceutical and Scientific Implications
The pharmaceutical implications of this discovery extend beyond historical curiosity. Modern researchers can now study how these fungi produce their alkaloids, potentially leading to:
- More efficient synthesis methods
- Novel therapeutic compounds
- Improved understanding of psychedelic pharmacology
This knowledge might inform current efforts to develop psychedelic-based treatments for:
- Depression
- PTSD
- Other mental health conditions
The century-long search for Hofmann’s hypothesized fungus demonstrates the persistence required in scientific investigation. Complex biological systems often conceal their secrets for generations before revealing them to researchers with the right tools and perspectives. This discovery serves as a reminder that traditional knowledge often contains scientific truths waiting for modern methods to confirm them.
Scientific Breakthrough Through DNA Sequencing
The identification of Periglandula clandestina represents a stunning victory for modern molecular biology techniques. DNA extraction and genome sequencing finally confirmed what scientists had suspected for decades – this elusive fungus was indeed a completely new species hiding in plain sight on morning glory seeds.
I find it remarkable that the breakthrough came through careful DNA analysis rather than traditional morphological studies. The genome sequencing revealed unique genetic markers that distinguished this fungus from all previously catalogued species. Scientists extracted DNA directly from the seed coat where the fungus establishes its microscopic colonies, producing the ergot alkaloids that had puzzled researchers for over a century.
Preserving Scientific Legacy
The gene sequence has been permanently archived in a public gene bank with Corinne Hazel’s name credited as the discoverer. This recognition highlights an extraordinary milestone achievement for undergraduate research, demonstrating that groundbreaking discoveries can emerge from student projects when supported by proper scientific methodology. Her work exemplifies how DNA analysis has revolutionized species identification, particularly for microscopic organisms that challenge traditional classification methods.
The discovery, published in the journal Mycologia in April 2025, documented the fungus across multiple morning glory varieties. Researchers observed Periglandula clandestina on Heavenly Blue, Pearly Gates, and Flying Saucers cultivars, suggesting this species has adapted specifically to these ornamental plants. Each variety showed consistent fungal colonization patterns, indicating a stable symbiotic relationship that had evolved over considerable time.
This scientific milestone carries particular significance given the historical context of psychoactive research. LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) was first synthesized in 1938 by Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann, though its powerful psychoactive properties weren’t discovered until 1943 when Hofmann accidentally absorbed some through his skin. The compound quickly gained recognition as one of the most potent hallucinogens known, requiring doses measured in micrograms rather than milligrams.
Understanding the natural production of ergot alkaloids through fungal synthesis provides crucial insights into biochemical pathways that generate these complex molecules. The discovery connects modern molecular techniques with historical pharmacological research, bridging decades of scientific inquiry. Scientists can now study how Periglandula clandestina produces these compounds naturally, potentially leading to advances in pharmaceutical synthesis or therapeutic applications.
The DNA sequencing results also revealed evolutionary relationships between this new species and other ergot-producing fungi. Genetic analysis showed distinct differences from Claviceps species that typically infect grains, suggesting separate evolutionary pathways for alkaloid production. This finding challenges previous assumptions about how these biochemical capabilities developed across different fungal lineages.
Genome sequencing technology has transformed how scientists approach species discovery, particularly for organisms that resist traditional identification methods. The success with Periglandula clandestina demonstrates that molecular tools can resolve taxonomic mysteries that have persisted for generations. DNA analysis provides definitive evidence that supplements morphological observations, creating more robust scientific classifications.
The preservation of genetic data in public repositories ensures that future researchers can build upon Hazel’s discovery. Gene banks serve as permanent records that enable comparative studies and evolutionary research across decades. Her contribution joins thousands of other genetic sequences that collectively expand our understanding of fungal diversity and biochemical capabilities.
This breakthrough illustrates how undergraduate researchers can make significant contributions to scientific knowledge when equipped with modern analytical tools. The combination of careful observation, proper sample collection, and advanced DNA sequencing created the perfect conditions for this major scientific discovery. The methodology established through this work will likely guide future searches for other cryptic fungal species that may harbor similar biochemical secrets.
Revolutionary Potential for Medicine and Pharmaceuticals
The discovery of Periglandula clandestina presents a game-changing opportunity for pharmaceutical development. This remarkable fungus produces lysergic acid derivatives, which serve as natural precursors to LSD and related chemical compounds. I find this breakthrough particularly exciting because it could transform how we source and develop medications that have traditionally relied on ergot alkaloids.
Current treatments for migraines, postpartum hemorrhage, and various psychiatric conditions depend heavily on ergot-derived medications. The identification of this fungus offers pharmaceutical companies an alternative source for these critical compounds. Instead of relying solely on traditional ergot sources, researchers can now explore the potential of this newly discovered fungus to produce these valuable therapeutic compounds more efficiently.
Expanding Research Horizons
The implications extend far beyond simple compound production. This discovery encourages scientists to investigate the intricate symbiotic relationships between plants and fungi, potentially uncovering new therapeutic pathways. I believe this research could lead to:
- More efficient synthetic production methods for existing medications
- Novel approaches to understanding plant-microbe interactions
- Development of entirely new pharmaceutical compounds
- Enhanced production techniques that reduce manufacturing costs
The timing of this discovery aligns perfectly with the current resurgence in psychedelic research. Scientists are increasingly investigating the therapeutic promise of psychedelic compounds for treating depression, PTSD, and addiction. The availability of a natural source for lysergic acid derivatives could accelerate clinical trials and research studies examining these treatments.
Pharmaceutical companies are already expressing interest in how this discovery might streamline production processes. Traditional methods of obtaining these compounds have been complex and sometimes unreliable. The identification of Periglandula clandestina provides a potentially more stable and controlled source for researchers studying everything from neurological phenomena to psychiatric interventions.
The medicinal properties of this fungus remain largely unexplored, presenting numerous opportunities for future research. I anticipate that pharmaceutical research teams will focus on understanding how to harness this organism’s compound-producing capabilities while maintaining the therapeutic efficacy that patients depend on. This discovery represents more than just a scientific curiosity—it’s a potential breakthrough that could reshape how we approach psychiatric treatment and neurological medicine.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R0k16-youjNkM
Historical Context and Cultural Impact
From Ancient Mysteries to Modern Medical Breakthroughs
Ergot-derived compounds carry a fascinating dual legacy that spans centuries of human history. I find it remarkable how these fungal substances have influenced everything from suspected mass hysteria events to groundbreaking medical discoveries. The Salem witch trials of 1692 provide one of the most compelling historical examples, where researchers like Linda Caporael have theorized that ergot poisoning may have contributed to the bizarre behaviors that sparked accusations of witchcraft. Contaminated rye crops could have produced the hallucinations and convulsions that terrorized the Massachusetts colony.
Mass poisonings throughout European history further demonstrate ergot’s dangerous potential. Medieval chronicles document numerous incidents where entire communities suffered from what they called “St. Anthony’s Fire” — a condition now recognized as ergotism. These episodes produced gangrenous limbs, seizures, and vivid hallucinations that often proved fatal. The fungus that caused such suffering would eventually become the foundation for one of the most significant discoveries in modern pharmacology.
The Birth of Psychedelic Science
Albert Hofmann’s accidental discovery of LSD in 1943 transformed our understanding of consciousness and launched the modern era of psychedelic research. Working with ergot alkaloids at Sandoz pharmaceutical company, Hofmann accidentally absorbed a small amount through his skin and experienced the first documented LSD trip. This serendipitous moment connected ancient fungal compounds to contemporary neuroscience, bridging millennia of human interaction with these powerful substances.
The counterculture movement of the 1960s embraced LSD as a tool for consciousness expansion, though this recreational use overshadowed legitimate scientific research for decades. Timothy Leary’s advocacy and the subsequent moral panic led to widespread prohibition that effectively halted academic investigation into these compounds’ therapeutic potential.
Recent decades have witnessed a renaissance in psychedelic research, with studies examining LSD’s potential for treating depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Johns Hopkins University and other prestigious institutions now conduct FDA-approved trials using psilocybin and MDMA, demonstrating how scientific attitudes have evolved. This college student’s discovery of LSD-like compounds in previously unstudied fungi adds another chapter to this ongoing story of human-fungal interaction.
The finding also reinforces theories about ancient ritualistic uses of psychedelics across various cultures. Archaeological evidence suggests that multiple civilizations incorporated hallucinogenic substances into religious ceremonies, possibly including ergot-containing grains. The Eleusinian Mysteries of ancient Greece, for example, may have involved ergot-derived compounds that induced profound spiritual experiences among initiates.
Modern fungal genetics research has revealed the sophisticated biosynthetic pathways that produce these compounds. Scientists now understand that ergot alkaloid production requires specific environmental conditions and genetic machinery that has evolved over millions of years. This college student’s discovery demonstrates that nature continues to surprise researchers, even after a century of intensive study.
The therapeutic potential of these newly discovered compounds remains largely unexplored, but early analysis suggests they share structural similarities with known psychedelics. Pharmaceutical companies are already expressing interest in synthesizing and testing these molecules for potential medical applications. The discovery highlights how biodiversity conservation connects directly to human health, as undiscovered fungi may harbor compounds that could revolutionize mental health treatment.
This breakthrough also underscores the importance of citizen science and undergraduate research participation. Major discoveries don’t always emerge from well-funded laboratories — sometimes they come from curious students willing to investigate overlooked corners of the natural world. The student’s finding proves that significant scientific advances can still occur through careful observation and methodical research, regardless of institutional prestige or research budgets.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R0k16-youjNkM
Technical Details and Scientific Significance
The official designation of Periglandula clandestina marks a watershed moment in mycological research, finally providing concrete evidence for theories that have circulated among scientists for generations. This newly cataloged fungus now holds its place in genetic repositories, establishing a permanent scientific record that researchers can reference and build upon for future studies.
The significance extends far beyond simple classification. For the first time, scientists possess confirmed evidence of a fungal source producing lysergic acid derivatives within morning glory plants. This discovery validates decades of speculation about the mysterious origins of these psychoactive compounds. Previously, researchers could only theorize about the mechanisms behind psychedelic production in certain plant species, but this breakthrough illuminates the intricate biological processes at work.
Implications for Plant-Fungal Interactions
The relationship between Periglandula clandestina and its host plants reveals fascinating insights into symbiotic partnerships in nature. I find it remarkable how this fungus operates within morning glory tissues, essentially acting as a biological factory for compound synthesis. The discovery demonstrates how fungi can serve as intermediaries in the production of complex molecules, challenging traditional assumptions about where certain substances originate.
This finding opens new avenues for understanding biosynthesis pathways. Scientists can now examine how fungal genetics influence the production of lysergic acid derivatives, potentially leading to applications in pharmaceutical research. The interaction between host and symbiont showcases nature’s sophisticated chemical manufacturing processes, where multiple organisms collaborate to create compounds neither could produce independently.
The breakthrough also highlights the critical role undergraduate students play in advancing scientific knowledge. A college student’s keen observation led to this century-long mystery being solved, proving that fresh perspectives and careful attention to detail can unlock discoveries that elude even seasoned researchers. This emphasizes how academic institutions benefit from encouraging student participation in research projects.
Understanding these plant-fungal relationships provides insights into evolutionary biology and chemical ecology. The partnership suggests co-evolution between species, where fungi developed the ability to produce specific compounds that benefit both organisms. This discovery parallels other fascinating biological phenomena, much like how scientists uncover mysteries in neuroscience and perception.
The genetic analysis of Periglandula clandestina reveals unique biosynthetic pathways that differ from previously known mechanisms. These pathways offer potential applications in biotechnology, where researchers might harness similar processes for controlled compound production. The fungus essentially serves as a natural laboratory, demonstrating how organisms can be engineered or utilized for specific chemical synthesis.
From a pharmacological perspective, this discovery provides new targets for drug development research. Understanding how fungi produce these compounds naturally could lead to more efficient synthetic methods or alternative therapeutic approaches. The research connects to broader trends in bioprospecting, where scientists explore natural sources for medically relevant compounds.
The official recognition and genetic cataloging of this species ensures that future researchers have access to standardized samples and reference materials. This standardization proves crucial for reproducible research and allows laboratories worldwide to contribute to ongoing studies. The genetic repository serves as a permanent record, protecting against loss of this valuable biological resource.
This breakthrough demonstrates how traditional scientific methods combined with modern genetic analysis can solve long-standing puzzles. The discovery reinforces the importance of systematic research approaches while celebrating the value of unexpected findings. It shows how persistence in scientific inquiry, coupled with fresh observations from new researchers, continues to advance human understanding of natural processes.
The identification of Periglandula clandestina transforms theoretical speculation into concrete scientific fact, providing a foundation for future research into psychoactive compound production in nature. This discovery will likely inspire similar investigations into other plant-fungal relationships, potentially revealing additional hidden partnerships that influence the chemical composition of various species.
Sources:
SciTechDaily – Long-Awaited Mystery Fungus Sought by LSD’s Inventor Found After 80-Year Search
National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) – PMC Article
Live Science – College Student Discovers Psychedelic Fungus That Eluded LSD Inventor
Narconon – LSD History
Bioengineer.org – WVU Student Uncovers Elusive Fungus Long Sought by LSD’s Creator
Wikipedia – History of LSD
WVU Today – WVU Student Discovers Long-Awaited Mystery Fungus Sought by LSD’s Inventor
Wholecelium – Morning Glory Student Discovers New Psychedelic Fungus
U.S. Forest Service – Ergot: Mind and Spirit
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – WVU Student Discovers Elusive Fungus With Ties to LSD
AZoLifeSciences – WVU Student Discovers Fungus With LSD-Like Therapeutic Potential
